News for Chamber

Doncaster businesses have been granted extra time to enter two Doncaster Business Awards categories.
Any business with a DN postcode wishing to enter Third Sector Organisation of the Year or the Success through Partnerships categories now has until midday, Monday 23 September to submit their applications.
The Doncaster Business Awards, sponsored in 2019 by Doncaster College & University Centre, ...read more

Doncaster Chamber are proud to be supporting local arts charities at the 2019 Doncaster Business Awards.
This year, all proceeds from the highly-anticipated charity raffle on the night will support Doncaster Community Arts (DARTS), Doncaster Little Theatre and Cast.
On the importance of championing, supporting and investing in artistic and cultural initiatives, Doncaster Chamber President ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce publishes new research demonstrating some of the potential real-world consequences of the UK leaving the EU without a deal on the 31st of October.
A survey of over 1,500 companies by the leading business group - covering of all sizes and sectors of business, across the UK - found that in the event of a ‘no deal’ exit on 31st October, nearly a quarter of firms ...read more

Commenting on announcement on the two-year post-study work visa, Mike Spicer, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“The British Chambers has long called for the two-year post-study work visa to be restored so this decision is welcome, if not overdue. This visa allows British universities and companies to benefit from the talent and energy of some of the students they ...read more

Commenting on the latest UK GDP statistics, published today by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Although there was a rise in GDP between June and July, the zero-growth recorded on the underlying three-month measure points to an economy under pressure from uncertainty over Brexit and weakening global economic conditions.
“The service ...read more

New research from the British Chambers of Commerce shows a concerningly high number of UK firms aren’t ready for a no deal Brexit. Business has consistently called on government to avoid a messy and disorderly exit but in light of the political turmoil and relentless uncertainty, clearer and more consistent information is needed to help them prepare.
The survey of over 1,500 firms from across ...read more

Responding to the latest Westminster developments, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Businesses feel like Westminster is playing an endless game of political chess, while their futures and the health of the UK economy hang in the balance.
“Every move in this game is prompting more questions, not just amongst businesses here at home but also amongst ...read more

For every Doncaster Business Insight Survey taken by a Doncaster business, Doncaster Chamber will donate £1 to support Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.
The latest quarterly Doncaster Business Insight survey is now open and for every survey completed by a business with a DN postcode, Doncaster Chamber will donate £1 to support local families via the Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.
The ...read more

Commenting on the government’s announcement of an independent review of HS2 by Douglas Oakervee, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“There is a strong economic case for delivering all phases of HS2.
“For far too long businesses across the UK have had to cope with heavily congested Victorian-era railways – with passengers and freight traffic ...read more

With the deadline for the Doncaster Chamber Business Awards fast approaching, we spoke with some of the winners of the 2018 Awards to learn about the opportunities they have had since winning, their experience of the evening and any advice they have for this year’s entrants.
Keepmoat Homes’ Corporate & Social Responsibility Manager, Mark Burley, reflected that winning the Excellence in ...read more

Commenting on today’s A level results, Jane Gratton, Head of People Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Congratulations to all the students around the UK who received their A level results.
“As students contemplate their next steps, it’s important to remember there’s more than one path to success in the world of work. While many school-leavers and their families consider a ...read more

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s announcement on immigration proposals, Dr Adam Marshall of the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“This is a positive signal on immigration, as business needs the new government to demonstrate openness to the world.
“It should be followed, swiftly, with further concrete policies to ensure our future immigration system works at every level, and in every ...read more

Many UK exporters are treading water at a time of deep uncertainty, according to the latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook from the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with DHL.
The survey of 3,400 exporters found nearly two-thirds (63%) of manufacturers report exchange rates as a concern to their business, indicating the pressure from sterling volatility.
The results ...read more

Commenting on the latest UK GDP statistics, published today by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The latest figures suggest that the UK economy hit the buffers in the second quarter. We’re seeing the unwinding of heightened levels of stockpiling, growing anxiety over the prospect of a no deal exit and moderating global growth having an ...read more

Between April and June, Doncaster Chamber has supported local businesses to export goods worth 34% more in value than the quarterly average for 2018-19, despite the economic uncertainty of Brexit.
Stefan Rodgers, Commercial Director at Doncaster Chamber, said: “There is currently a limited number of companies from the Doncaster area that trade overseas. Given the current economic climate, this ...read more

Commenting on the Prime Minister's announcement that the government will fund a high-speed rail link between Leeds and Manchester, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
"Chambers have campaigned for decades for better rail connections across the North of England – and transforming the link between Leeds and Manchester is a crucial piece of the ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce which represents 75,000 firms of all sizes and sectors, employing 6 million people has written to incoming Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, setting out 15 urgent, immediate steps that the PM must address on arrival in Downing Street to boost business confidence and stimulate the UK economy.
From the critical need to avoid a messy and disorderly Brexit on the 31st of ...read more

Commenting on the announcement that Rt Hon Boris Johnson MP has won the Conservative leadership contest and will be the next Prime Minister, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The message to Boris Johnson from business communities around the UK couldn’t be simpler: the time for campaigning is over and we need you to get down to ...read more

A popular awards ceremony with a difference is returning to the Sheffield City Region and Doncaster-based entrepreneurs are being given the chance to follow in the footsteps of digital marketing agency Loud Crowd which was named as Growth business of the year during the 2018 inaugural celebrations. Showcasing and celebrating the achievements of new and aspiring entrepreneurs, the Sheffield City ...read more

Commenting on the inflation statistics for June 2019, published today by the Office for National Statistics, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Inflation held steady in June, as the upward pressures from clothing and food were offset by weaker outturns in several price categories including fuel prices and accommodation services. Modest inflation ...read more

Over 250 representatives from education, business and local authority across Doncaster gathered at the launch of Opportunities Doncaster and Start Doncaster at the Hilton Garden Inn on 16 July.
Mayor Ros Jones, Doncaster Council CEO Damian Allen and Andy Hibbitt, Director of Opportunities Doncaster and Skills & Education Director at Doncaster Chamber, emphasised the critical role that ...read more

Commenting on the latest UK GDP and trade statistics, published today by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Although there was modest rally in GDP growth between April and May, the continued slowdown on the underlying three-month measure is further evidence that the UK economy is faltering under the weight of relentless Brexit uncertainty ...read more

Doncaster College & University Centre has been announced as headline sponsor for the Doncaster Business Awards, a prestigious black-tie event held in December each year. Now in its 21st year, the annual Doncaster Business Awards, organised by Doncaster Chamber, recognise the very best of Doncaster’s business community as firms go head to head in the 12 award categories including Excellence in ...read more

Ahead of the Opportunities Doncaster launch event on 16 July, the new organisation’s website has gone live today.
Opportunities Doncaster is a new and exciting organisation, co-created by Doncaster Chamber, the Doncaster Opportunity Area Programme and Doncaster Council to bring business and education together.
The website, www.opportunitiesdoncaster.co.uk, forms part of the wider Opportunities ...read more

Over half of UK businesses with staff from outside the UK would be negatively impacted by government proposals for the UK’s future immigration system, according to new research released today (Tuesday) by the British Chambers of Commerce and global job site Indeed.
According to a survey of 380 businesses that currently employ non-UK nationals, 53% report they would be negatively impacted by ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Survey – the largest private sector survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth, closely watched by policymakers including the Bank of England – finds that underlying economic conditions remained stagnant in the second quarter of 2019. The balance of manufacturing firms reporting improved domestic orders at 7-year ...read more

Doncaster UTC has made a key appointment to lead the way in student recruitment, prepare the University Technical College for opening and run the organisation post opening.
Garath Rawson, from Mansfield, has been appointed as Principal at the Doncaster UTC and will take up his post in September 2019, a year before the organisation opens its doors to its first students.
Joining Doncaster UTC from ...read more

New research by the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with global job site Indeed, reveals the increasing time it’s taking businesses to recruit the skills they need, emphasising the importance of removing blockers in the training system to develop a pipeline of talent.
Today the BCC and Indeed also release The Hiring Handbook to help businesses find and recruit the best ...read more

Commenting on the announcement that the Home Secretary Sajid Javid has asked the Migration Advisory Committee to review and advise on salary thresholds for the future immigration system, Mike Spicer, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
"We have long campaigned for the Government to reconsider what to businesses seemed like arbitrary caps so this is a positive ...read more

Commenting on the inflation statistics for May 2019, published today by the Office for National Statistics, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The easing in consumer prices in May is further evidence that the current trajectory for inflation remains muted, providing a welcome boost to consumer spending power. Falling transport fares, particularly ...read more

As part of national Learning Disability Awareness Week, Opportunities Doncaster is highlighting that the new initiative launching next month will support people from all backgrounds and abilities with careers advice, no matter what career path they may be considering. Launching on 16 July, Opportunities Doncaster is a new and exciting organisation, co-created by Doncaster Chamber and Doncaster ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has today (Monday) released its latest economic forecast, upgrading its growth expectations for the UK in 2019 to 1.3% (from 1.2%). However, the leading business group has downgraded its growth forecast for 2020 to 1.0% (from 1.3%) and to 1.2% (from 1.4%) in 2021. The leading business group has slightly upgraded its growth forecast for 2019, driven by the ...read more

One of Doncaster’s leading banks, Handelsbanken, has become a patron member of Doncaster Chamber. The new partnership will enable them to build stronger relations with local businesses and individuals and contribute to the borough.
Handelsbanken is a local relationship bank, based on satisfied customers, financial strength and traditional values. Their Doncaster branch is empowered to make the ...read more

The Doncaster Business Awards 2019 are now open for entry. Businesses with a DN postcode can enter any or all of the 12 award categories including SME Business of the Year, and Excellence in Customer Service, as well as two new awards, Marketing Campaign of the Year and Business & Education Partnership.
The Doncaster Business Awards, run by Doncaster Chamber, are the highlight of the region’s ...read more

On 23 May, Doncaster Chamber hosted a ‘Doing business in south-east Asia’ event to support local businesses already trading overseas and those considering expanding to new horizons.
The morning event focussed on three keynote speakers with a wide and varied experience of doing business within the region including where to start, and understanding local laws and political and cultural differences ...read more

Opportunities Doncaster is a new and exciting organisation, co-created by Doncaster Chamber and Doncaster Council, in Partnership with the Opportunity Area Programme, to bring business and education together. The new professional organisation will launch itself at a special event on Tuesday 16 July.
Business people, education leaders, teachers, careers leads and parents are invited to the event ...read more

Commenting on the Migration Advisory Committee’s report, Jane Gratton, Head of People Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Expanding the Shortage Occupation List will help businesses access the skills they need when they can’t recruit locally. Listing occupations, rather that job titles, simplifies the system and gives welcome flexibility to those hiring for new or ...read more

Commenting on the news British Steel is entering insolvency, Hannah Essex, Co-executive director at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Many Chamber businesses will be concerned about the potential impact of British Steel entering insolvency, particularly those in their supply chain who will be directly and deeply affected. The company’s operations are at the centre of many local ...read more

A crafty former library assistant has found a new outlet for her creative talents, after teaming up with a number of like-minded entrepreneurs to pioneer Doncaster’s first eco-friendly shop.
Based in Doncaster’s recently renovated Woolmarket, Artisan and Eco offers a range of plastic-free products, ranging from bamboo toothbrushes, hand crafted fairies, traditional peg dolls and even cling film ...read more

Responding to the announcement that Theresa May will step down as Prime Minister, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“We wish the Prime Minister well and thank her for her decades of public service.
“Businesses must be reassured that a change at the top in Downing Street does not simply usher in a longer period of posturing and gesture politics. ...read more

More UK exporters are reporting a decrease in orders in the opening quarter of the year, with cashflow and confidence dipping too according to the latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook from the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with DHL.
The report based on the responses of over 3,400 exporters shows that one in five manufacturers (23%) and service firms (20%) saw their ...read more

Should Doncaster go for City Status? is just one of the important questions in the Spring Doncaster Business Insight Survey which is evoking a large response from local business leaders. The responses will be used by Doncaster Chamber to help inform their mandate of work and represent the business voice on matters that impact business growth and the local economy.
“This is an important survey ...read more

Commenting on the inflation statistics for April 2019, published today by the Office for National Statistics, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“UK inflation moved above the Bank of England’s 2% target for the first time since December 2018, with rising energy prices and higher air fares, placing the largest upward pressure on price growth in ...read more

The future is tech and data - with robotics becoming more widely used; but that means nothing without people as businesses have to be trusted and transparent and have good customer relations, according to Chris Oldacre, IBM UK's Industry Leader for the Consumer Products, Travel and Logistics sectors, speaking at the sixth Doncaster Business Conference.
The keynote speaker was back in his home ...read more

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s statement, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Businesses need concrete outcomes to plan for the future. In the absence of parliamentary consensus on either the Withdrawal Agreement or any other proposition for the future, both businesses and investment remain in limbo.
“Companies across the UK are ...read more

Recruitment intentions were strong in the first quarter of the year but nearly 75% of firms reported a shortage of suitable candidates, according to the landmark publication of the Quarterly Recruitment Outlook released on Wednesday 15 May by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) in partnership with Totaljobs. •Over half (53%) of UK businesses attempted to recruit new hires in the first quarter ...read more

Doncaster Chamber is pleased to welcome Cllr. Nuala Fennelly to its Board as a co-opted director. As Doncaster Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, her expertise will help inform the Chamber's work to connect businesses and schools to help inspire and prepare young people to be work ready.
Her predecessor Cllr. Bill Mordue served on the Chamber’s Board of Directors as ...read more

Commenting on the National Infrastructure Commission’s letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on infrastructure planning and investment, Mike Spicer, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The National Infrastructure Commission is right to stress the importance of protecting infrastructure spend in the government’s forthcoming spending review. Business expects ...read more

Commenting on the latest UK GDP statistics, published on Friday 10 May 2019 by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“While there was a strengthening in UK GDP growth in the first quarter, the headline figure has been flattered by a temporary boost from stockpiling ahead of a possible no-deal exit, and so does little to alter the UK’s ...read more

Commenting on the Rail Delivery Group’s submission to the Williams Review of the rail industry, Jane Gratton, Head of Business Environment at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“We’ve always believed the private sector has a central role to play in delivering a rail network that is fit for purpose and that can take responsibility and respond quickly when things go wrong. Business ...read more

The annual Doncaster Business Conference on Thursday 16 May promises a full line-up of high profile speakers discussing the issues that matter most to local firms. It will drive a two-way dialogue between businesses and partner organisations about how barriers to growth can be overcome and how economic opportunities can be better exploited for the benefit of the local economy.
This year’s two ...read more

Business believes that the UK tax system is fundamentally unfair and want more support to stay compliant, according to new research released by the British Chambers of Commerce.
The survey of over 1,000 firms from across the UK, found that nearly three-fifths (58%) of respondents think that the UK tax regime is unfair to businesses like theirs.
The findings largely signal concerns over how ...read more

Commenting on the inflation statistics for March 2019, published by the Office for National Statistics, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“CPI inflation was unchanged in March with rising prices for fuel and clothing, offset by downward pressure from across a range of goods including food and motor vehicles.
“It remains probable that UK ...read more

Commenting on the labour market figures for April 2019, published by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The strong increase in employment, coupled with another fall in the number of people out of work, suggests that the UK labour market remains in good order.
“However, behind the strong ...read more

Commenting on the latest UK GDP and trade statistics, published on 10 April 2019 by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The widening in the UK’s trade deficit is further evidence of deep-rooted imbalances in UK economic growth and suggests that net trade is likely to have been a drag on UK GDP growth in Q1. Slowing global growth, Brexit ...read more

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE) is setting up a new small business stakeholder forum. This is a great opportunity for employers to influence policy and raise any issues, concerns and opportunities with the Institute around the development of Apprenticeship Standards and T levels.
The forum will meet three times a year in Westminster and the first meeting will be ...read more

Commented the British Chambers of Commerce on the Article 50 extension:
“For most businesses, the ‘flextension’ agreed by the European Council will be preferable to deadlines that are repeatedly moved forward at the last possible moment.
“This extension buys Parliament some time to come to a consensus, but they can’t afford to squander it. Politicians must urgently agree on a way forward. It ...read more

Doncaster Chamber’s latest quarterly Business Insight Survey to capture a snapshot of local business sentiment is more positive than the national picture but Brexit is still their biggest concern.
Key indicators of their economic health showed a more positive balance of Doncaster firms reporting increased sales, advance orders, and employment in Q1 2019 compared to the overall UK Quarterly ...read more

The results from the Q1 2019 BCC Quarterly Economic Survey suggest that UK economic conditions weakened significantly in the first quarter of 2019. The balance of services firms reporting improved export sales fell from +14 to +0, the weakest level since Q2 2009.
Those reporting improved export orders in the services sector dropped from +9 to -2, reaching negative territory for the first time ...read more

Doncaster Skills Academy (DSA) hosted an awards ceremony for 60 people from business and education to celebrate their working together to raise the career aspirations of young people and show them the job opportunities available locally.
Cllr Nuala Fennelly, Councillor for Young People & Families, Doncaster Council, presented the seven awards:
Raising Aspirations – Kate Haigh, Stewart & ...read more

At a recent Doncaster Business Insight Breakfast Briefing, local firms gained an economic snapshot of how the local economy is faring and how they can make themselves more robust and sustainable in these changing economic, political, and environmental times.
The results of the latest Doncaster Business Insight Survey, run by Doncaster Chamber, showed that despite Brexit uncertainty, local firms’ ...read more

HMRC are holding EU Exit webinars for UK businesses trading with the EU. The webinars will cover what UK businesses need to know to keep imports and exports up to speed, and identify the key steps to continue trading with EU businesses. They cover important actions that businesses trading with the EU must take now, including registering for a UK trader number (known as an EORI number) and ...read more

Commenting on the Prime Minister's announcement she will seek to extend the Brexit deadline, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“The clock is still ticking, and avoiding a messy and disorderly exit from the EU is still the top priority for our business communities. The government must take firm action, now, to ensure that this is not allowed to happen ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce’s quarterly economic survey – the largest private sector survey of business sentiment and leading indicator of UK GDP growth – found that key indicators of UK economic health weakened considerably in the first quarter of 2019. •The balance of services firms reporting a rise in export sales at its lowest level in a decade•The balance of firms reporting improved ...read more

Local business people will attend the Doncaster Business Insight Breakfast Briefing on Thursday 4 April to discuss how Doncaster firms are making themselves more robust, sustainable and productive during these changing economic, political and environmental times.
Anna Round from the IPPR will talk about her ongoing work into the productivity of small and medium sized businesses in the North of ...read more

CPI inflation in the UK stood at 1.9% in February 2019, up from 1.8% in the previous month. In the three months to December 2018, the number of people in employment rose by 222,000 on the previous three-month period. Average weekly earnings (excluding bonuses) rose by 3.4%, up from 3.2% on the previous three-month period. UK retail sales increased by 0.4% in February 2019 and were up by 0.7% on ...read more

Firms that participated in the Doncaster Business Insight Survey Q1 2019 have raised £159 for local charity, Active Fusion, to engage more young people in physical activity across South Yorkshire and beyond.
Each quarter, for every survey taken by a business with a DN postcode, Doncaster Chamber donates £1 to a chosen member charity.
The funds raised during the latest survey have been ...read more

Commenting on the inflation statistics for February 2019, published today by the Office for National Statistics, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Inflation picked-up for the first time since August 2018, with rising prices across a range of items including food and alcohol, placing the largest upward pressure on price growth in ...read more

“The involvement of business is key and critical to the success of Doncaster University Technical College (UTC)” that’s according to The Rt Hon. Lord Kenneth Baker who was speaking at a recent launch event in the town.
Lord Baker, who is Chairman and Trustee of Baker-Dearing Educational Trust, which sits at the centre of the UTC network and focuses on promoting and supporting new and existing ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has slightly downgraded its growth expectations for the UK economy, forecasting growth of just 1.2% in 2019 (down from 1.3%), which if realised would be the weakest growth in a decade. The BCC has also downgraded its growth forecast for 2020 to 1.3% (down from 1.5%) and published its first forecast for 2021 of 1.4% growth. A weaker outlook for business ...read more

Commenting on the parliamentary vote on extending Article 50, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“While most businesses will support an extension to Article 50 to avert the prospect of a messy and disorderly exit on the March 29th, with just two weeks to go this vote leaves firms with no real clarity on the future.
“Although Parliament has ...read more

With just weeks to go before its planned introduction, new research suggests nearly one in five businesses above the VAT threshold still know little or nothing about Making Tax Digital, according to the British Chambers of Commerce.
Responding to the findings, and amid the significant cost pressures placed on business by the ongoing Brexit uncertainty, the leading business group is reiterating ...read more

Commenting on the Spring Statement, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The Chancellor is right to warn of the risks that a messy and disorderly exit on March 29th would pose for the economy. Westminster must heed the fact that businesses and government agencies are simply not ready for such an abrupt change, and Parliament must take concrete ...read more

“Although there was an increase in GDP growth between December and January, the data for the longer three-month period recorded an economy that was continuing to slow under the weight of uncertainty over Brexit and weakening global trading conditions," commented Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), on the latest UK GDP and trade statistics, published today by ...read more

“Businesses have warned time and again that the United Kingdom is not ready to face the consequences of a messy and disorderly exit from the European Union. Government agencies are not ready, many businesses are not ready, and despite two and a half years passing since the referendum, there is no clear plan to support communities at the sharp end of such an abrupt change," commented Dr Adam ...read more

With just weeks to go before its planned introduction, new research suggests nearly one in five businesses above the VAT threshold still know little or nothing about Making Tax Digital, according to the British Chambers of Commerce.
Responding to the findings, and amid the significant cost pressures placed on business by the ongoing Brexit uncertainty, the leading business group is reiterating ...read more

Doncaster College & University Centre hosted an Apprenticeship Awards night to celebrate the success of their apprentices and their employers during the academic year 2018/19.
As proud sponsors, Doncaster Chamber presented the 'Business Support Apprentice of the Year Award' to Abbie Brierly at Hallcross Medical Practice, and Doncaster Skills Academy presented Narmila Singh from Doncaster School ...read more

Amazon welcomed 15 SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) students from the Communication Specialist College Doncaster (CSCD) for an industry visit organised by Doncaster Skills Academy to give them a first-hand experience of the various employment opportunities available to them on their doorstep.
Amazon opened their doors to the first SEND school to visit the premises located at the ...read more

Chief Executive Jo Miller is leaving Doncaster in June to take up a role on the other side of the world.
Jo is to become the Chief Executive of Hutt City Council, near Wellington in New Zealand in July.
“This opportunity starts a new chapter in my public service career and I am looking forward to the challenge in a different country with a different set of challenges and opportunities. It goes ...read more

The latest Doncaster Business Insight Survey is now open and for every one completed by a business with a DN postcode, Doncaster Chamber will donate £1 to Active Fusion.
Active Fusion is a Doncaster charity helping young people to develop a love for being active by unlocking their potential and creating positive habits for life. Over the last year they have worked with over 23,000 young people ...read more

In the three months to December 2018, the number of people in employment in the UK rose by 167,000 on the previous three-month period. Average weekly earnings (excluding bonuses) rose by 3.4% and the number of job vacancies rose by 16,000 to 870,000, a new record high. UK labour productivity dropped by 0.2% in the year to Q4 2018. Public sector net borrowing (excluding public sector banks) in ...read more

Commenting ahead of today’s Cabinet meeting and the Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on the Brexit negotiations, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“At this pivotal moment, the government must take decisive steps to avoid the damage that a messy and disorderly exit would cause to business and the economy in just a month’s ...read more

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on the next steps in the Brexit process, Claire Walker, Co-Executive Director of Policy and Campaigns at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“While this a giant political leap for the Prime Minister, this is only a small step towards the clarity and precision that businesses need to chart their future ...read more

Commenting on the latest update to existing trade agreements if the UK leaves the EU without a deal, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The lack of progress revealed today is an incredibly disappointing, though not unexpected admission. This is unfortunately yet another example where politicians have overpromised and underdelivered – and it is ...read more

Commenting on the labour market figures for February 2019, published by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The fall in unemployment and strong employment levels are further evidence that the UK jobs market remains resilient, with firms continuing to recruit despite an increasingly challenging economic backdrop.
“With earnings growth ...read more

The Doncaster Business Awards charity raffle and silent auction raised £4,730 for Real Help Doncaster to help vulnerable people off the streets and into healthier lifestyles. The monies will be shared equally between local charities Changing Lives and Riverside.
Over 800 people attended the Business Awards organised by Doncaster Chamber in December 2018 and participated in the raffle to win ...read more

With national government still debating over future trade laws and DMBC championing local procurement, Doncaster Chamber is keen to know where firms are currently trading so that they can highlight new opportunities and support for doing more business locally and globally.
Firms are also being asked to comment on the Government’s apprenticeship levy and whether they are considering starting to ...read more

The percentage of both manufacturing and services exporters who are expecting to increase their prices has risen in the past three months, as international traders struggle with the value of the pound and pressure from the cost of raw materials and other overheads, according to the latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook from the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with DHL. The ...read more

Commenting on the latest UK GDP and trade statistics, published by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The latest data indicates that the UK economy suffered a significant loss of momentum in the final quarter of 2018, with Brexit uncertainty, a slowing global economy and the persistent financial squeeze on consumers and businesses ...read more

Over 2,500 students from schools across Doncaster attended Doncaster Skills Fest 2019 to gather valuable careers advice from a range of local education providers and employers.
Held at The Dome on 7 February, the event, run by Doncaster Chamber’s Doncaster Skills Academy, is the largest in the region for young people to think about their future careers and the education and employment ...read more

Commenting on reports that the Cabinet is considering options around making imports tariff-free across the board if we leave the EU next month without a deal, Adam Marshall, Director General of British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Businesses across the UK will be deeply concerned by reports that ministers are considering setting UK import tariffs to zero in the case of ...read more

Two senior directors have joined Doncaster Chamber to drive the development of its award-winning support for business and education across the borough. Stefan Rodgers and Andy Hibbitt will use their commercial expertise to enable the not for profit organisation to provide it’s 700+ members and partners with the services they need to grow and succeed.
Stefan Rodgers, in his role as Commercial ...read more

Doncaster Chamber CEO Dan Fell will bang the drum for regional aviation and economic development at the Heathrow National Conference on 8 February in London. He will chair a panel discussion on ‘Building a gateway to the UK: Tourism & Growth’ with representatives from national tourism and aviation organisations including Visit Britain and ABTA.
This panel will discuss options to help boost ...read more

Commenting on the announcement by HMRC on Transitional Simplified Procedures for customs in the case of no deal, Ronan Quigley, Executive Director responsible for Trade at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The priority of business communities across the UK is to avoid a messy and disorderly Brexit on March 29th. In the unwelcome scenario of no deal, we have been fighting long and ...read more

Commenting on the latest votes in Parliament on Brexit, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Another day lost while the clock is ticking. Government and parliament are still going round in circles when businesses and the public urgently need answers.
“The real-world result of Westminster’s interminable wrangling is market uncertainty, stockpiling, ...read more

Innovative waste management company, Ellgia Recycling Ltd. has become a patron member of Doncaster Chamber. The new partnership will enable them to open up new business opportunities and engage with other like-minded business people and institutions within the community who are working for the greater good.
Ellgia uses the latest technology to design bespoke waste solutions for businesses in the ...read more

In the three months to November 2018, the number of people in employment rose by 141,000 on the previous three-month period. Average weekly earnings (excluding bonuses) rose by 3.3%, up from 3.2% on the previous three-month period. Public sector net borrowing (excluding public sector banks) in December 2018 was £3.0 billion, £0.3 billion higher than in December 2017 and the highest December ...read more

Where else but Doncaster could you train to be a zoo keeper, jockey or pilot?
Doncaster Skills Academy’s annual flagship event, Skills Fest 2019, will motivate over 2,600 students from local schools and colleges to think about the career pathways and opportunities available to them.
On Thursday 7 February at Doncaster Dome, over 80+ local businesses and education providers will showcase their ...read more

Commenting on the labour market figures for January 2019, published today by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The marked increase in employment is further evidence that the jobs market remains a major positive for the UK economy. Although some firms report that Brexit uncertainty and recruitment difficulties are weighing on hiring ...read more

Over 150 firms gave an insight into how their business is faring and their views on hot business matters by participating in the Doncaster Business Insight survey for Q4 2018. Their feedback will enable Doncaster Chamber, Doncaster Council and other key stakeholders to monitor economic trends, capture business sentiment and support firms in their business growth.
Firms completed the quarterly ...read more

Local firms that completed the lastest Doncaster Business Insight Survey, run by Doncaster Chamber, raised over £150 for Real Help Doncaster. For every survey taken by a business with a DN postcode, £1 was donated to the local fund that helps homeless and vulnerable people off the street and into a healthier and safer lifestyle. This is in addition to the £500 donation that the Chamber has already ...read more

Responding to the Parliamentary defeat of the Meaningful Vote on the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“There are no more words to describe the frustration, impatience, and growing anger amongst business after two and a half years on a high-stakes political rollercoaster ride that shows no sign ...read more

A lawyer and two managing directors have been elected to join the Doncaster Chamber Board of Directors. They will share their expertise to advise the membership organisation that supports and represents Doncaster’s private sector through its tailored business services.
Chamber President Michael Wilkinson (Frog Education) announced the election results at the Doncaster Chamber AGM and welcomed ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce’s quarterly economic survey – the UK’s largest private sector survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth – finds that the UK economy ended 2018 stuck in a weak holding pattern, with stagnating levels of growth and business confidence as a result of heightened Brexit uncertainty and other economic pressures. Key findings:•Percentage of ...read more

Commenting on the publication of the government’s Immigration White Paper, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“While these proposals are not quite as bad as we had originally feared, it’s no secret that companies across the UK are sceptical about whether the government’s approach will actually deliver on their practical, real-world ...read more

The UK’s five leading business groups, representing hundreds of thousands of businesses across the United Kingdom employing millions of people, today unite and call on politicians to prevent a disorderly ‘no-deal’ Brexit on 29th March.
“Businesses have been watching in horror as politicians have focused on factional disputes rather than practical steps that business needs to move forward. The ...read more

Uncertainty over the UK’s future relationship with the EU is one of many factors that has weakened the outlook for business investment, according to the latest forecast by British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). The UK’s leading business group forecast a decline of -0.6% for business investment this year following weaker than expected data. This is a sharp decline from the 1.0% growth previously ...read more

UK GDP on the rolling three-month growth measure increased by 0.4% in October 2018, down from 0.6% September 2018. On the monthly measure, UK GDP increased by 0.1% in October 2018, up slightly from zero growth in September. Growth in output from the services sector grew by 0.2% in October. Output from the construction sector dropped by 0.2%, while total industrial production decreased by 0.6% in ...read more

The winners of the 20th annual Doncaster Business Awards 2018, sponsored by Doncaster College & University Centre, were announced on Thursday 13 December during a prestigious awards ceremony at Doncaster Racecourse.
The black-tie evening organised by Doncaster Chamber saw over 800 guests from the local business community recognise and celebrate the high calibre of work that firms are performing ...read more

Commenting on the confidence vote in the Prime Minister, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“With news that the Prime Minister remains in place, business communities will hope that these political games can finally be put to bed. Westminster must now focus all its energy on urgently giving businesses clarity on the future and avoiding a messy or ...read more

Responding to the Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on delaying Parliament’s ‘meaningful vote’ on the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Firms are looking on with utter dismay at the ongoing saga in Westminster, and express concern that politicians are seemingly acting in their own ...read more

Commenting on the labour market figures for December 2018, published by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“While the latest data confirms that the UK jobs market remains in good shape, the second successive rise in unemployment, coupled with a decline in the number of people who are not seeking work, is further evidence of the increasing ...read more

Commenting on the GDP and trade statistics for October 2018, published by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The latest GDP data is further evidence that the drag effect of persistent Brexit uncertainty and the significant cost pressures faced by consumers and businesses is taking its toll on the UK economy.
“The slowdown on the ...read more

Commenting on the publication of the policy paper by DExEU on the rights of EU (European Union) citizens in the UK in the event of no deal, Jane Gratton, Head of Business Environment and Skills at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“While it is long overdue, businesses and EU citizens in the UK will welcome the clarity on how the EU Settlement Scheme will operate in the event of no ...read more

Doncaster University Technological College will be a distinctive school led by employers to provide an innovative and engaging learning environment and unique learning experience. This will equip young people with the education and qualifications required for future success and will create pathways into university or higher levels of education and to the most significant areas of growth in ...read more

Doncaster Chamber is celebrating winning the Most Effective Campaigning award, sponsored by Heathrow Airport, at the British Chambers of Commerce’s annual Chamber Business Awards 2018. The national awards highlight the role of business in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local towns and regions.
Doncaster Chamber has worked closely with a range of partners – including Hungerhill ...read more

In annual terms, UK business borrowing contracted by 1.9% in October 2018. Deposits held by UK non-financial companies grew by 3.4%.
In the year to June 2018, net migration stood at 273,000 with 625,000 people moving to the UK and 351,000 people leaving the UK over the period. EU net migration was 74,000 in the year to June 2018 and non-EU net migration was 248,000.
The US economy grew by ...read more

Commenting on the latest migration statistics, published today by the ONS, Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“These latest figures are nothing to celebrate when businesses up and down the country are facing record high skills shortages.
“Despite valiant efforts to recruit at home, employers need people to fill vacancies where there are local ...read more

Commenting on the agreement between the UK and EU27 on the Withdrawal Agreement and the Political Declaration, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“While this is a milestone in the political process of Brexit, and a significant personal achievement for the Prime Minister, it’s just one more step on a long road for businesses exhausted by three years of ...read more

Ben Hanlin, one of the UK’s leading magicians, is hosting the prestigious Doncaster Business Awards 2018. Over 900 guests will be entertained by his cheeky magic, close-up conjuring and mind games as they celebrate doing business in Doncaster.
Now in its 20th year, the black tie event has become the UK’s largest Chamber awards night with the announcement of the winners and runners-up, ...read more

Commenting on the announcement that the UK government and EU Commission have agreed a Political Declaration, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“While we welcome the fact that more flesh has been put on the bones of the proposed future UK-EU relationship, the reality is that the clarity and precision businesses need to plan for the long term can ...read more

Doncaster Chamber is the first business to back the new partnership scheme that helps people off the street and into a healthier and safer lifestyle.
The business support organisation and its members have been working with the council and police to address the spike of anti-social behaviour, crime, aggressive begging and drug dealing/usage in Doncaster town centre and across the borough.
Town ...read more

CPI inflation in the UK stood at 2.4% in October 2018, unchanged from the previous month. The large downward contributions to the change in the 12-month rate from food and non-alcoholic beverages, clothing and footwear, and some transport elements were offset by upward contributions from rising fuel prices.
In the three months to September 2018, the number of people in employment rose by ...read more

Local firms that completed the Doncaster Business Insight Survey last quarter raised over £150 for The Children’s Sleep Charity. For every survey taken by a business with a DN postcode, £1 was donated to the local charity that annually supports around 30k families nationwide who are in crisis due to sleep deprivation.
Says Vicki Dawson, CEO and Founder: “We are hugely grateful for this kind ...read more

As the Government prepares the Brexit Agreement, Doncaster businesses are being asked how prepared they are whatever the outcome of the Brexit deal / no deal. This is just one of the important questions in the latest Doncaster Business Insight Survey.
Hundreds of local businesses will participate in the quarterly survey run by Doncaster Chamber in association with Business Doncaster and sponsored ...read more

Commenting on the announcement from the Prime Minister that the Cabinet has backed the draft Withdrawal Agreement and the political declaration on the future relationship between the UK and the EU27, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Businesses will recognise the huge efforts made by the Prime Minister and across government to reach this ...read more

Commenting on the labour market figures for November 2018, published today by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The slight increase in the unemployment rate suggests that the UK jobs market may be starting to falter under the weight of persistent Brexit uncertainty and chronic skills shortages. While the number of people in work remains ...read more

The UK economy grew by 0.6% in Q3 2018, up from growth of 0.4% in the previous quarter. On a monthly basis, UK economic growth was flat in September, unchanged from the previous month. Growth in output from the services sector grew by 0.4% in Q3. Output from the construction sector rose by 2.1%, while total industrial production increased by 0.8% in the month.
The UK’s trade deficit in goods ...read more

The way we work, future job roles and required skills are changing rapidly due to digital transformation. Businesses are adapting their workforces to work more smartly alongside new technologies and become more productive.
This was the story reflected in the results of the latest Doncaster Business Insight Survey which showed that more than a third of firms (35%) said a higher percentage of their ...read more

Now in its 20th year, the Doncaster Business Awards have become the highlight of the local business calendar and an opportunity to support and celebrate doing business in Doncaster.
The Awards, sponsored by Doncaster College & University Centre, recognises the very best of Doncaster’s business community as firms go head to head in the 11 award categories including Excellence in Customer Service, ...read more

Commenting on the first estimate of GDP for Q3 2018, published today by the ONS, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said
“While the pick-up in GDP growth in the third quarter is welcome, the stronger headline figure masks a loss of momentum through the quarter from the particularly strong July outturn, when a number of temporary factors, including the ...read more

Doncaster Chamber has announced the finalists for the Doncaster Business Awards. The awards celebrate the best practice and success exemplified in Doncaster’s business community.
Now in their 20th year, the Doncaster Business Awards have become the highlight of Doncaster’s business calendar. The finalists are competing for 11 award categories including Success in International Markets, ...read more

In its latest forecasts, the Office for Budget Responsibility expects GDP growth for 2018 of 1.3%, down from their previous forecast of 1.5% published in March 2018. The growth forecast for 2019 has been upgraded to 1.6%, from 1.3%. Forecasted growth in 2020 has also been upgraded to 1.4%, from 1.3%.
UK interest rates were kept at 0.75% with the Monetary Policy Committee voting unanimously (9-0) ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce’s quarterly economic survey – the UK’s largest private sector survey of business sentiment, and a lead indicator of UK GDP growth - shows little to be cheerful about as growth flatlines and business confidence weakens. Key findings: •Percentage of services firms attempting to recruit is at its lowest level for 25 years•Of those services firms recruiting, ...read more

Feedback from the diverse array of businesses that make up the membership of Chambers across the UK confirms that while getting a good Brexit deal is vital, it is not the only challenge facing the UK economy. Indeed, many of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the UK economy have little or nothing to do with the UK’s departure from the European Union. The best Brexit deal imaginable ...read more

The latest UK Finance business lending data revealed that net lending to businesses grew for the fourth consecutive month in September, with total borrowing by non-financial companies increasing by £597m. Deposits held by UK non-financial companies grew by 3.6% over the last twelve months. The US economy grew at an annualised rate of 3.5% in Q3 2018, better than expected but still slower than the ...read more

Commenting on the Chancellor’s proposals for the high street in the upcoming Autumn Budget, Hannah Essex, Co-Executive Director of Policy and Campaigns, at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“We’re delighted that the Chancellor has heeded our calls to abandon the uprating of business rates for the high street for the next two years, and gone further by cutting bills for the vast ...read more

Giving his reaction to the Autumn Budget 2018, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“In an atmosphere of unprecedented uncertainty and heightened political noise, the Chancellor has demonstrated that he is listening to business concerns by delivering a Budget that supports investment and growth.
“The Chancellor responded directly to the BCC’s ...read more

Giving his initial reaction to the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“In an atmosphere of unprecedented uncertainty and heightened political noise, the Chancellor has demonstrated that he is listening to business concerns by delivering a Budget that supports investment and growth.
“The Chancellor responded directly ...read more

Cyber criminals can destroy companies who fail to implement simple but effective security measures, a major business event was told.
The rising cost of cyber crime was placed under the spotlight at the Sheffield City Region Quarterly Economic Review breakfast briefing, which was held in front of 70 business leaders at Inox Dine in Sheffield. The keynote speaker was Sergeant Shelton Newsham of the ...read more

Over 100 business leaders met with Heathrow and their supply chains at Yorkshire’s only Heathrow Business Summit. Doncaster Chamber worked in partnership with Heathrow Airport to facilitate the connections with the Airport’s procurement team and principal suppliers and open up an array of national business opportunities.
Heathrow is keen to ensure the benefits of its expansion are felt across the ...read more

Commenting on the inflation statistics for September 2018, published by the Office for National Statistics, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“Inflation slowed for the first time since April, with food and non-alcoholic drinks placing the largest downward pressure on price growth in September.
“Inflation’s trajectory is likely to fluctuate somewhat ...read more

CPI inflation in the UK stood at 2.4% in September 2018, down from 2.7% in August. The largest downward contribution came from food and non-alcoholic beverages where prices fell. Other large downward contributions came from transport, recreation and culture, and clothing. In the three months to July 2018, the number of people in employment fell by 5,000 on the previous three-month period. Average ...read more

BCC convenes a meeting with DEXEU Secretary Dominic Raab and seven Northern European Chambers of CommerceThe group collectively represents regions and nations that cover 70% of UK-EU trade – around £344bn in 2016Recent research by BCC shows a fifth of businesses will move part or all of their business to the EU in the event of a no-deal BrexitAt a meeting today (Thursday) with Brexit Secretary ...read more

Half of businesses surveyed say that Brexit is making it difficult to decide whether to import or export, hampering British tradeVolatility of sterling is also causing concernBCC has long been calling for clarity for business on the practical questions over Brexit A survey by British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with DHL Express UK, has revealed that almost half – 49% – of businesses have ...read more

Doncaster Chamber has been finalised for two British Chamber of Commerce Awards. The national awards for “Chamber of the Year” and “Campaign of the Year” recognise the Chamber’s exemplary service that supports the growth and prosperity of the local and British business community.
“Through consultation, lobbying, training, and community engagement, Doncaster Chamber is at the heart of getting ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce’s quarterly economic survey – the UK’s largest private sector survey of business sentiment, and a lead indicator of UK GDP growth - shows little to be cheerful about as growth flatlines and business confidence weakens.
Key findings:
Percentage of services firms attempting to recruit is at its lowest level for 25 yearsOf those services firms recruiting, ...read more

One of the biggest surveys of business intentions since the EU referendum has found that nearly two-thirds of firms still aren’t preparing for Brexit – and in the event of a ‘no deal’ outcome many would cut investment and recruitment plans.
With just six months to go before the UK leaves the EU, the British Chambers of Commerce is calling for UK ministers to redouble their efforts to reach an ...read more

The British Chambers of Commerce has published a Business Brexit Checklist to help firms consider the changes Brexit may bring and to plan for them.
Their Brexit Risk Register assesses the progress on 24 business-critical issues which businesses need clear answers on.